Floods worsen in Balasore; Air dropping to commence

Bhubaneswar, Jun 18 (UNI) The Orissa government today decided to airdrop relief materials from tomorrow in Balasore district, considered to be the worst hit in the state.

The decision was taken at a meeting convened to review the current flood situation this noon. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik presided over the meeting.

The air dropping would start in four worst hit blocks-Baliapal Basta, Bhograi and Jaleswar.

The government had already requisitioned two helicopters of the Air force for the purpose, Revenue Minister Manmohan Samal said here today.

Mr Samal said more than eight lakh people were seriosuly affected in the flood in Balasore, Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj and Jajpur districts.

Subarnarekha, the major river in the district was now flowing at 12.40 mt against the danger level of 10.36 metre at Rajghat. It crossed last year's water level of 12.38 metre and the officials predicted that the level would cross 12.65 metres in the next 24 hours.

Similarly, the Baitarani river was flowing at 18.83 metre at Akhuapada against the danger level of 17.83 metre and is likely to flow at 19.15 metre in the next 24 hours.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik directed the officials to take up the relief and rescue operation on a war footing, distribute halogen tab, polythins and drinking water pouch and food to the affected people.

Mr Patnaik also directed the official to send medical teams to the affected areas.

The revenue Minister said eight medical teams would reach Balasore tomorrow.The government has already ordered free kitchens in the worst affcted blocks of the district .

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